Control system for line casting machines



Jan. 22, 1963 7 Sheets-Sheet 1 FIG.I

Filed June 29, 1959 m IE Em 6 AH MTT A CC AR IEM EU N P U EO EB C L 0 E G l/MM WW T alo.

FIG.6

FIG. 5

Jan. 22, 1963 J. J. AcKELL ETAL 3,074,537

CONTROL SYSTEM FOR LINE CASTING MACHINES Filed June 29, 1959 '7 Sheets-Sheet 2 nlmlw" FIG. 2

Jan. 22, 1963 J. J. ACKELL Em. 3,074,537

CONTROL SYSTEM FOR LINE CASTING MACHINES Filed June 29, 1959 7 Sheets-Sheet 3 'd'Nln 999 Jan. 22, 1963 J. J. ACKELL ETAL 3,074,537

coNTEoL sYsTEN Foa LINE CASTING MACHINES Filed June 29, 1959 7 Sheets-Sheet 4 FIG.4

Jan. 22, 1963 J, J. AcKELL. ETAL 3,074,537

CONTROL SYSTEM FOR LINE CASTING MACHINES Filed June 29, 1959 7 Sheets-Sheet 5 mn .GE

OOOOOOOQO OOOOQOOOO Jan. 22, 1963 J. J. ACKELI. ETAI. 3,074,537

CoNTEoL sYsTEIvI ECR LINE CASTING MACHINES Filed June 29. 1959 '7 Sheets-Sheet 6 8 IIs IIT IIG |40 EscAPEMENT/ ,|43 OPERATING --f- 1 uNIT |53 g |45 g rf LINE CASTING MACHINE I l Y I l 14n |44 I I ESCAPEMENT/ I I OPERATING ---"J s UNIT I l Isa ,7fL --J Jan. 22, 1963 J. J. AcKELL ETAL 3,074,537 coNTRoL SYSTEM FOR LINE CASTING MACHINES Filed June 29. 1959 '7 Sheets-Sheet 7 arrasar Patented Jan, 22, i963 fi'? CQNTRL SYSTlill/i LEE CASTNG MAQHNES oseph 5. Aclieli, Amityyilie, Herbert L. Paulding, Port Washington, and Richard Yn, New Yorin, NSY., as-

to Bow .iones Company, Enc., New York,

Nif., a corporation of Delaware This invention relates to control systems for line casting machines and more particularly to such systems in which individual character bearing matrices are automatically released under the control of a control tape.

There has been developed an automatic control system for an existing line casting machine, such as machines sold under the trade names Linotype and lntertype, which is responsive to a control tape and is extremely rapid in action and highly accurate. Representative systems of this type are disclosed, for example, in Joseph l. Ackell Patents 2,704,595 and 2,704,596 issued March 22, 1955, and 2,846,055 issued August 5, 1958. Such systems customarily embody advancing and analyzing means for the tape which operates under the control of a timing unit to. actuate a plurality of relays or other circuit controlling devices. The relays in turn control the selective operation of a plurality of current responsive devices, such as solenoids, which have armature portions adapted to act on the keys of the machine keyboard to enable the release of the various matrices from the appropriate storage magazine or" the line casting machine.

Heretofore, primarily because ofthe time delay incident to the recovery of the key operated release mechanism in the line casting machine after the release of a given matrix, it often has been necessary to operate the control system at a reduced speed in order to allow sutlicient time for restoration of the key operated mechanism to its normal position. lThis has been of special moment in situations in which it is desirable to bring about the successive release of two or more matrices of the same character, such as in printing fi in the word oterf for example, and in some instances it heretofore has been necessary to introduce a special time delay into the system which is responsive only to such repeats. Additionally, in systems of this type, it sometimes has been necessary to accomplish minor adjustments or repairs, such as might be occasioned by the burning out of a solenoid or the wear of various mechanical parts, for example, and heretofore the line casting operation frequently had to be interrupted or had to be controlled manually until the repairs had been completed. The large number of component parts employed in many previous line casting systems, particularly in the mechanisms used for releasing the individual matrices, for example, has increased the incident of such repair, and this has further impaired some of the many advantages resulting from the use of automatic control systems.

One general object of this invention, therefore, is to provide a new and improved control system which is particularly adaptable for automatically controlling the operation or a hue casting machine.

More specifically, it is an object of this invention to provide such a system which enables the operation of the line casting machine at a maximum rate.

Another object of this invention is to provide a control system of the character indicated wherein various cornponent parts may be quickly and easily assembled and may be removed from the line casting machine for maintenance purposes, etc.

Still another object of the invention is to provide such a control system utilizing comparatively simple mechanical 2 and electrical elements, which system is economical to manufacture and thoroughly reliable in operation.

As will be understood, a line casting machine is provided with one or more magazines for matrices corresponding to the diiferent characters to be formed in successive lines to be cast. Each magazine customarily car ries matrices conforming with a particular style of type to be set up and is mounted on a frame member affixed to. the machine. The individual frame members are movable in order to properly locate the appropriate magazine in an operative position. The matrices are selectively released by escapements, and space bands are similarly released for introduction into the assembly of matrices to be formed into a line of proper length. Means are also provided on the line casting machine for moving the released and assembled matrices and space bands into line casting posi-V tion and for restoring the matrices and space bands to their initial positions in the appropriate magazine after the line has been cast.

In one illustrative embodiment of this invention, an automatic control system for a line casting machine of this type comprises a device for analyzing a control tape, timing meansfor controlling the operation of the tape analyzing device, an operating unit including a series of solenoids having armature members, or plungers, which are directly connected to the escapements of the line casting machine, means for maintaining the solenoids in rigid relationship with each other and with the escapements, and circuit means responsive to the tape analyzing device for controlling the selective operation or" the solenoids.

ln accordance with one feature of this invention, the plungers of the various solenoids are connected directly and positively to appropriate rocker members in the escapements of the line casting machine, thereby eliminating the necessity for operation of the machine keyboard and the complicated connections leading from the latter to the rocker members during automatic operation of the machine. These plungers are adapted to return immediately to their unoperated position upon deenergization of the corresponding solenoid. In addition, the connectionsbetween the plungers and the rocker members are such as to permit manual operation, when desired, through the use of the keyboard.

In accordance with another feature of the invention, the operating unit and the escapement mechanism are rigidly but detachably mounted directly on a magazine frame of the line casting machine. Thus, the entire assembly may be quickly and easily removed from the machine for maintenance purposes, etc. A mounting bracket of unique design is employed which not only maintains the various components of the operating unit in rigid relationship with each other, but also provides a means for rmly securing these components to the escapement mechanism.

ln yaccordance with fa further feature of the invention, the number of mechanical and electrical pants necessary to control the operation of the various escapements have been greatly reduced, thereby reducing the need for re-A pair or replacement such as might be occasioned by wear, etc. of these parts.

The present invention, as well as further objects and features thereof, will be understood more clearly and fully from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment thereof, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FEGURE 1 is a schematic block diagram of a line casting machine control system constructed in accordance with the invention;

FlGURE 2 is a front view, partially broken away for convenience, of the lower portion of a magazine frame lof a linecasting machine, together with certain parts of the control system of FIGURE l;

FIGURE 3 is a rearview of the portion of the control system illustrated in FGURE 2, with various components removed for purposes -o clarity;

FlGURE 4 is Ia side view oi the portion of the control system illustnated in FlGUlE 3; l

FlGURE 5 is a view, partly in section and partly in elevation, taken generally along the lines S-S in FlGURE 3, with a represcntativernatrix storage magazine ofthe line casting machine illustrated in its operative location;

FGURE 6 is a View similar to FEGURE 5 but illustrating portions of the control system in an operated position; Y

. FEGURE 7A is an exploded perspective view, partially breiten away for convenience, of a mounting bracket and associated parts useful in connection with the invention;

FIGURE 7B is a perspective Viewr of certain parts of the mounting bracket shown in FIGURE 7A;

FGURE 8 is a partial schematic wiring diagram of electrical circuitry useful in connection with the release of space bands in accordance with the invention;

FlGUPoE 9 is a detail view, partly in elevation and partly schematic, illustratingcertain portions of the space band releasing means;

FIGURE l0 is a schematic block diagram, in part similar to FlGUlE. 1, illustrating certain additional components of a control system constructed in accordance with the invention; and

FIGURE ll is aside View of a portion of a magazine positioning mechanism yof a line casting machine, together with certain pants ot the control system of FlGURE lil. In order to facilitate the description of therembodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, there will iirst be given a brief discussion oi 'the general mode of operation o a line casting machine control system constructed in accordance with this embodiment. That is, before describing the novel construction and arrangement of the Various parts of such control system, a description will be given of its over-all function in the control of a line casting machine.

As shown in FGURE l of the drawings, the system is provided with a tape box l@ including the usual tape feeding and tape analyzing devices incorporated therein. This box is connected by means of a cable 1l to a relay system, indicated schematically by the relay box l2. The conguration of the electrical circuitry for the tape box 1li and the relay box l2y is already known in the art, and consequently detailed circuit diagrams for these components have not been shown in the drawings. The boxes l@ and i2, however, illustratively may be constructed generally in accordance with the teachings 'of the above-mentioned Achell Patent 2,704,595, .in which case the tape box lo may comprise the tape analyzer lol, for example, While the relay box l2 illustratively may include the coils ,1C through 7C, together with 'the associated armatures and other related components shown in FGURES la through ld of Aol-:ell Fatent 2,704,595.

The relay box l2 is connected by means of a cable i3 to lan escapement `operating unit llf-l which is physically associated with a line casting machine l5, as schematically illustrated by the dotted line le. The operating unit ld includes a plurality yof current responsive devices, such as solenoids (not shown in FIGURE l), for physically operating the escapements `ci: the line casting machine to selectively release individual matrices from a storage magazine and thereby assemble la line of type.

The tape box lo operates under the control of a timing unit i7 and is connected thereto by a cable l. rl'he timing unit l? may include a series of control cams (not shown herein but illustrated in said Aclrell patents) mounted on a rotating shaft, the speed of rot-ation of which determines the ratte at which the various matrices in the magazine of the line casting machine are released. The timing unit l also is connected through suitable circuits directly to the relay box l2 by a cable 19. 4A cable 19a connects the timing uni-t 17 with the line casting machine l5 for the purpose of controlling various other functions of the machine. Additionally, certain components ot the timing unit 17 are physically associated with the line casting machine, as schematically illustrated by the dotted line leu. For a more detailed discussion oi representative timing units that be employed in connection with the invention, together' wth illustrative electrical circuitry circuits leading through the cable i3 to the escapenientY `oper-ating unit ld. Upon the closing ot 'an appropriate switch (not shown) in the timing unit i7, current is supplied throngh the cable i9' to 'the relay box l2. and over the closed circuits in cable l5 to a selected solenoid in the operating unit, thereby releasing a given matrix from one of the magazines of the line casting machine l5. The timing of this releasing operation is thus under the direct control `of the timing unit i7. During the release of a series of matrice space bands are `also released ai an appropriate time in a manner to be more fully described hereafter. The line casting machine l5 is adapted to `assemble the matrices and space bands to for-rn aline of type and to move the lassembly into 'a line casting position. When fthe casting operation has been completed, means is provided on the. line casting machine for returning the matrices and space bans to their initial positions.

Referring now to FlGURES 2 through 7 of the drawings, there is shown the escapement operating unit la which is in rigid but detachable relationship with a magazine support frame 2li of the line casting machine l5. For purpose of clarity, much of the electrical wiring connecting the various electrical components of the operating unit i4 has been omitted from the drawings. However, the electrical components of escapement operating units constructed in accordance with the invention may be connected, for example, in a manner similar to that disclosed schematically in `any of the Ackell patents referred to heretofore. In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the electrical circuit diagram for the operating unit le is the same in many respects as those portions of FIG- URE l of Eckell Patent 2,846,655 which include the solenoids 11, the unidirectional current elements, such as the rectihers 267, and the associated circuitry.

The operating unit le includes a plurality of current responsive devices, such as the solenoids 2l, which are positioned on a mounting bracket 22 and, as best shown in FEGURES 5, 6 and 7, are aligned in three parallel rows. In the drawings, each of these solenoids is identilied by the reference numeral 2l followed by an alphabetical suiiix indicative of the particular row with which the solenoids are associated. lllhus, the solenoids Zia are disposed in one row, the solenoids 2lb in another and the solenoids 2lb in a third row. These rows extend in a horizontal direction, as viewed in the drawings, and the solenoids in each row are disposed in vertical, side by side relationship with each other. A further description of the arrangement of the solenoids 2l, together with a description of the mounting bracket 22, will be found hereafter.

The solenoids 2l each include an energizing winding 23 and an armature portion or plunger 2d which is adapted for reciprocatory movement within the corre- Vspending winding Z3 along the longitudinal axis thereof. The lower end of each of the plungers 2li is rigidly amxed in axial alignment with one end of an elongated hollow tube 25, which advantageously is abricated'irom a relatively liexlble material. rOne end of an operating rod 26 is disposed in the opposite end of each of the tubes Z5 where it is frictionally held in rigid but removable relationship therewith. The flexible tube 25 enables the operating rod 26 disposed therein to extend at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the corresponding plunger 24, for purposes that will appear hereafter.

The free end of each of the operating rods 2id is rigidly connected to a screw 3% which projects outwardly from a rearwardly extending portion 3l of a rocker member The roel-:er members 32 correspond in number to the number of different releasing operations to be performed by the line casting machine and are adapted to rotate about a horizontal shaft 33 in an escapement mechanism 34. rEhe shaft 33 extends through the central portion of eac-h of the rockers 32 and is suitably supported by the escapement mechanism 3d in the usual manner.

.Each of 'he rockers 32 includes an upper socket 35 and a lower socket S which are respectively located above and below the shaft 33. Sockets 35 and 36 have a substantially circular configuration and are adapted to receive corresponding ends of an upper pawl 3? and a lower pawl 353, respectively, which project horizontally from each of the rockers 32 in a direction opposite to that of the screw The projecting ends of the upper pawls 37 are positioned in corresponding apertures 3@ in an upper horizontal ledge at the front face of the esc-apement mechanism 3d, while the projecting ends of the lower pawls 3S similarly are located in apertures il in a lower horizontal ledge 42 of the mechanism Each of the rocher members 32 is biased in a counterclockwise direction, as viewed in FIGURES 4, 5 and 6, by an elongated coil spring d3. One end of spring a3 is rigidly afdxed to the screw 3S on the corresponding rocker 32 while the other end of spring 43 is secured to a projecting portion il of a longitudinally extending bracket As best shown in FIGURE 3, the bracket 45 is fastened to the rear face of the escapement mechanism 54 by machine screws or other suitable means.

A storage magazin-e 5d (ElGURES 5 and o) of the line casting machine l5, is f. apted to be positioned on the support frame (FGURE 2) in juxtaposition with the escapement mechanism 341-. The side of magazine Sil adjacent the escapement mechanism 3f: includes an elongated vupper aperture 5l and an elongated lower aperture 52 which are adapted to accommodate the upper ledge et) and the lower ledge d2, respectively, on the escapement mech nism 3d. rfhe magazine Sd includes the usual channels 53, which contain a plurality of matrices Elta, 55:17 ano 5de bearing suitable indicia (not shown) of the particular character' to be cast in a line of type. Although purposes of clarity only one of the channels 53 has n shown in the drawings, it will be understood that the magazine 5d comprises a series of channels 53 in parallel, side by side with each other, corresponding relations io number to the number of roel-:er me bers 32 employed in the escapement mechanism 3d of the line casting machine. Each of the matrices 5am, dab and :3f-lc is of substantially flat, rectangular construction and includes four projecting lugs 55 which extend from the longitudinal sides thereof at each corner. in the operative position of the magazine the matrices in a given channel 53 are in coplanar alignment with each other and extend in a substantially vertical piane.

in its unoperated position, the lower pawl 3d of each of the rocker members 32 extends into the magazine 5d through the corresponding aperture 4l in ledge i2 and engages the lower end of the upper projecting lug 55 along the adjacent longitudinal side of the lowerinost matrix 54a, as shown in FEGURE 5. Matrix Sdu is thereby supported in its proper position in the magazine channel S5. The upper pawl 37 of each rocker member 32. is located in the corresponding aperture 39 in ledge 429 in -a position withdrawn from the interior of the magazine 5d. in the FEGURE 5 position, aperture 39 is located intermediate the two lugs 55 along the adjacent longitudinal side of the matrix 51th, which rests against the upper edge of the lowermost matrix 54:1 and is supported thereby.

As indicated heretofore, the tape box it) (FlGURl-E `l) is adapted to furnish information to the relay box l2 corresponding to the desired character to be formed in a line of type. Appropriate circuits are closed by the relays (not shown) in the box l2, and an energizing signal is transmitted over these circuits to one of the solenoids 2l in the operating unit la. Upon the receipt of this euergizing signal, the selected solenoid Zit draws the correspending plunger 24, together with the tube 25 and the operating rod 26, in an upward direction, as shown in PISURE 6. The resulting upward force exerted on the screw 3i? causes the member 32 to roch about the shaft 33 in a clockwise direction, as viewed in the drawings, against the tension provided by the spring 43. The lower pawl 3S is ywithdrawn from the interior of the magazine 5d, thereby permitting the lowermost matrix 51h; to drop from the magazine to the line or" type being formed. Clockwise rotation of the rocker member 52 about shaft 33 also moves the upper pawl 37 into the interior of the magazine 5d. Pawl 37 comes in contact with the adjacent upper lug 55 of the matrix Seb as this matrix slides alomT the channel 53, and thus the matrix 54h is prevented from dropping from the magazine 5i? and is held in a position about halfway between that of the matrices 54a and Sfib in FlGUlE 5.

Upon deenergization of the selected solenoid 2l, the spring d3 immediately returns the corresponding rocker member 32, the operating rod 25, the tube ZS and the plunger 2d to their initial (FGURE 5) position. As the rocher member 32 returns, the upper pawl 37 is withdrawn from the interior of the magazine Sil and thereby enables the matrix 54]) to drop a short distance. Before the upper lug 55' on the side of matrix l5ft!) adjacent the member 32 passes the lorer aperture il in ledge ,42, however, the lower pawl 32 protrudes through this aperture into the interior or" the magazine Sil and comes in Contact with the adjacent upper lug 55, thereby arresting the downward movement of the matrix 54h in the position formerly assume-d by matrix 54a. The apparatus is thus immediately conditioned for the release of the matrix Sb should another signal be received by the corresponding solenoid 121.

in this manner successive matrices are quickly brought into the discharge position and may be discharged from the magazine 5o and, together with appropriate space bands (not shown), assembled in a line for delivery to the casting point. Ey providing a direct, physical connection between the various solenoid plungers nl and the corresponding rochers 32, a particular matrix may be released immediately upon the receipt of an energizing signal by the appropriate solenoid 2l. Upon *he removal of this signal, the coil spring immediately returns the rocker 32 to its initial position and thereby prepares the apparatus for the release of a successive matrix 54h from the same channel. ln the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the control shaft (not shown) in the timing unit l' (FEGURE l) may be rotated at a speed such that the various matrices are uniformly and automatically released lat a rate of 550 per minute. This high and uniform operating speed has been attained without the necessity for introducing special time delays, complicated mechanical or electrical components, etc., into the matrix releasing system. Ci course, other operating speeds may be employed without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention, and in some instances the matrices advantageously may be released at a speed higher, as well as lower, than that specifically referred to above.

The above construction also permits manual operation of the line casting machine, when desired, through the use of the machine keyboard (not shown). Thus, the escapement mechanism 34 includes a series of plungers 56, each of which corresponds with one of the rocker members 3f; and is adapted to move in a vertical direction, as viewed in the drawings. Each plunger 5d is controlled by the keyboard of the line casting machine and moves upwardly upon actuation of the appropriate key, thereby rocking the corresponding rocker member 32 and releasspesse? 7 ing one of the matrices in a manner similar to that described heretofore.

The various soienoids 2l, together with other components comprising the escapement operating unit i4 of the control system, are rigidly held in spaced, side by side relationship with each other and in operative position with respect to the escapement mechanism 3d by the mounting bracket 22, the detailed construction of which is best shown in ll-URES 7A and 7B. "i" he bracket Z2 includes an elongated lower section o@ having a portion el which is disposed in a substantially vertical plane, as viewed in the drawings. A ilange o2 extends horizontally in one direction from the lowermost edge of the portion hivhile a second liange e3 extends from the upper edge of portion di in a direction pposite to that or the flange 62. The section ed ot bracket 22 additionally includes a second portion having flanges and 66 located in planes which are dispose at an angle of slightly less than 90 degrees in relation to each other. The flange d5 oi portion ed is welded or otherwise rigidly axed to the vertical portion 6l and is longitudinally disposed with respect thereto, as shown in llGURES Il and 7A. The flange 6d of portion ed is disposed substantially in the same plane as the upper d3 on the portion el but extends in a direction opposite to that of ilange o3 at a slight, downward angle with respect thereto.

The franges o5 and ed on the respective portions el. and 64 oi the lower section d of mounting bracket Z2 are each provided w ith a series of apertures e7 therein. These apertures are spaced longitudinally along the ilanges 63 and 66, and the number of apertures in each flange correspends to the number oi solenoids 2lb or Zlrz, respectively, in the appropriate row. Additionally, the lower ilange 52 on the portion el of bracket section dil includes a plurality of recesses 63 which likewise are longitudinally spaced thereon and correspond in number to the number of solenoids Zic.

The rows ot apertures 57 are adapted to be aligned with a pair of mating rows of apertures 7d on an elongated upper section 7l of the mounting bracket 22. The sectionl is'adapted to rest on the upper surfaces of the anges 63 and 6d of the lower bracket section 6@ and includes a slight bend 72 adiacent the longitudinal center line thereof for this purpose. Bracket section 7i additionally includes three posts 73, 7d and 75 (FEGURE 3) which extend in an upward direction, as viewed in the drawings, and are respectively adixed at the lower ends thereof to corresponding plates 76. The plates 76 for the posts 73 and 75 are welded or otherwise rigidly positioned adjacent each end of the bracket section 7 Post 7d, on the other hand, is somewhat shorter than posts 73 and 75 and is located on its corresponding plate 7d at the approximate longitudinal center of the bracket section 7l.

ri`he two sections oil and 7l of the mounting bracket 22 are maintained in rigid relationship with each other by a plurality of solenoid mounting screws 77 which are adapted to be inserted in the solenoids Zia and 2lb at the ends thereof opposite the ends connected to the operating rods 26. The mounting screws 77 for the row of solenoids 21o are inserted in corresponding apertures 7d and o7 in the upper bracket section 7l and in the flange 6a ot the lower bracket section 6tlg respectively, and these solenoids 21a depend from the llange 6o and are rigidly held in position by the mounting screws 77. The mounting screws 77 for the row of solenoids 2lb are inserted in mating apertures 7i? and e7 in the upper bracket section 7l. and in the flange 63 of the lower bracket section 6i?, respectively. These latter mounting screws 77 similarly hold the row of solenoids 2lb rigidly in position beneath the ilange 63, and the solenoids 2lb depend from this .bracket section titl. The solenoids 2te depend from the g flange 62 and are rigidly held in position on the bracket section ell.

As best shown in FGURE 4, wo elongated panels Sil and 8l are vertically disposed on the upper bracket sec- Vtion 7l and are respectively secured to opposite sides of.

the posts 73, 7 s and 75 by screws il?, or other appropriate means. ri`he panels and Sl are thus located immediately above the solenoids 2l on the mounting bracket 22 t and are adapted to accommodate a plurality ot rectirlers 33 which, for example, may be electrically connected to the corresponding solenoids 2l in a manner similar to the connections between the solenoids ll and the rectiiiers 267 shown schematically in FlGURE l or" the aforementioned Ackell latent 2,845,055. Although for purposes of clarity only some of the rectiiiers 83 have been illustrated in the drawings, it will be understood that these rectiers extend substantially along the entire, exposed surfaces of the panels d@ and @l and, in this particular embodiment of the invention, correspond in number to the number of rectiiiers 267 illustrated schematically in Ackell Patent 2,846,655. By mounting the rectifier panels d@ and dl immediately adjacent the solenoids 2l, the amount ot electrical wiring necessary to connect the rectiiiers 53 with the appropriate solenoids 2l in a given installation can be maintained at a minimum.

The use of rectiiiers, such as the rectiiiers d3, in the `control system of a line casting machine has many important advantages, some of which are summarized in the aforementioned Ackell Patent 2,846,055. However, in some embodiments ol the present invention the rectiers may be saiely omitted without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. ln these latter embodiments, there is of course no necessity for the provision of the rectiiier panels and ill, the mounting posts 73, 7d and 7:5, and related parte.

it desired, a cover may be positioned on the operating unit ld adiacent the rectilier panels and 8l, as shown in FGURES 2 and 4. The cover Se has a crosssection substantially in the shape of an inverted U and extends longitudinally over the panels dil and Cover Sd is rigidly maintained with respect to the mounting posts 73, 7d and 75 by appropriat s; acers which extend outwardly from the panels d@ and Sl and are iixedly secured to the cover by screws or other suitable means.

The assembled operating unit ld for theV line casting machine is maintained in rigid relationship with the escapement mechanism 3d by two legs @il and @El of similar construction which depend from opposite ends o the mounting bracket 22,. The leg El@ is best shown in FGURB 7B. The upper portion of the leg 9@ is welded or otherwise secured to two extensions 92 and 93 which project in opposite directions at right angles to the longitudinal direction or the bracket 22 at one end thereof and are integrally formed with the bracket portions el and 6d, respectively. The upper portion of the leg 91 is similarly amxed at the other end of bracket Z2 to two extensions 94 and 9S (FiF-URE 4). The lower portions of legs gli and @l are rigidly secured to opposite ends or" the escapernent mechanism 34, and thus the mounting bracket 22 (together with the solenoids 2l, the rectiier panels Si? and Sl, and other associated parts of the operating unit Vlli) is firmly maintained in spaced, parallel relationship therewith.

After the mounting bracket 22 is secured to the escapement mechanism 34, the plungers 2d of the various solenoids 2l are respectively attached to the corresponding rocker members 52 by means of the operating rods 26 and the set screws 3@ in a man. er described heretofore. There may be instances where the plunger of a particular solenoid 2l is not exactly in line with its corresponding operating rod 26. However, the necessity for such exact alignment has been substantially eliminated through the use of the flexible tubes 25 which enable the various operating rods 2e to depend at au angle with re` aora-,5er

spectto the corresponding plungers 24 without deleterious effect.

As shown in FIGUREZ, the assembly comprising the operating unit 14 and the escapement mechanism 3d is secured directly to a magazine frame 2li or" the line casting machine 15 between two depending arms 168 and 1411 thereof. For this purpose, ears 192 and 1113 respectively extend from opposite end-s of the escapement mechanism 34 and are each provided with an upper aperture 1% and a lower aperture 165., The lower aperture 195 of ear 102 and the upper aperture 14M of ear 1% accommodate mounting bolts 196 and 167, respectively. ri`he bolt 1nd extends through the lowermost portion of the frame arm 16d, while bolt 197' is inserted in the arm 101 immediately above the lowermost portion thereof. The upper aperture 164 of ear 132 and the lower aperture ii of ear 103 mate with corresponding guide pins 198 and 1%9. Guide pin 168 protrudes from the arm ltil of frame 2li and is located immediately above the mounting bolt 166, while guide pin 199 extends from the lowermost portion of frame arm 191 below the mounting bolt 1li?. The cable 13 containing the electrical wiring leading from the relay box 12 (FGURE l) to the escapement operating unit 14 is held in position on the rectifier mounting panel Sil by a suitable bracket 111.

The escapement mechanism 34 (FIGURE 2), together with the operating unit 14 mounted thereon, can be quickly and easily secured to and removed from the magazine frame Ztl. These components are accurately located by means of the guide pins 1&3 and 169 and are rigidly held in an operative position by the bolts o and 1517. Should a particular solenoid Z1 or other component in the operating unit 14 burn out, for example, and thereby necessitate its repair or replacement, the operating unit 1e.- is electrically disconnected from the relay box 12 (FIF- URE l) by a suitable plug and socket arrangement (not shown in FIGURES l and 2) intermediate the ends of the cable 13. The bolts 166 and 1117 are removed, and the operating unit 14 and attached escapement mechanism 34 are lifted from the magazine frame Ztl of the line casting machine. During the maintenance of these parts, an alternate operating unit and escapement mechanism are positioned on frame 2i?, where they are aligned by means of the pins 10S and 169 and are held in position by the bolts 166 and 167. In this manner, any delays in the operation of the line casting machine 15 are kept at a minimum since the necessary maintenance can be performed while the machine is under the control of the alternate operating unit and escapernent mechanism.

As has been indicated heretofore, the Various matrices released from the magazine Si) of the line casting machine 15 drop to an assembly point on the machine where they are assembled, along with appropriate space bands, to form a line of type. The space bands customarily are stored in a suitable space band box (not shown) which is located on the line casting machine immediately above the assembly point. In accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention, these space bands are automatically released in response to an appropriate space band signal from the tape box 1l) by means of a rotary solenoid 115, as shown in FIGURES 8 and 9. The solenoid 115 includes an energizing winding 116 which is connected at one end to a conductor 117 and at the other end to a conductor 11S. The free end of the conductor 117 is attached to a terminal 119, while the free end of t e conductor 11E; is secured to a terminal 12d. A capacitor 121 is connected across the conductors 117 and 11S in parallel with the solenoid 115.

The terminals 119 and 12d are adapted to be connected through appropriate circuitry, relays, switches, etc., in the tape box 1t?, the relay box 12 and the timing unit 17 (FIGURE l) to a suitable source of electrical potential. Although for purposes of clarity these connections have not been shown in the drawings, the terminals 119 and 129 illustratively may be connected electrically in a manner similar to the various space band solenoids shown in the aforementioned Ackell patents. Thus, as an illustration, these terminals may be connected to a suitable direct current voltage source in a manner similar to the space band solenoid shown in FIGURE la of Acliell Patent 2,846,055. ln this illustration, the positive line 230 of Ackell is connected to the terminal 119, While Ackells negative line 231 is connected to the terminal 12d.

Referring to FIGURE 9, the line casting machine 1:3' includes an upstanding member 1.25 which is disposed adiacent the space band box (not shown) of the machine. An elongated arm 126 is pivotally connectedat one end thereof to the upstanding member by means of a pin 127. The arm 126 extends horizontally, as Viewed in FIGURE 9, and is supported adjacent its other end by a coil spring 128, one end of which is afxed to the arm 126 by a screw 129. The opposite end of the spring 128 is suitably secured, as at 13d, to a portion of the line casting machine.

The elongated arm 126 includes a ilange 131 extending longitudfnally therewith in a horizontal plane. A spherical roller 132 rests against the upper surfa:e of the ilange 131 and is adapted to rotate about a pin 133 mounted at one end of a switch arm 134. The other end of the arm 134iis rigidly aixed to a shaft 13S which comprises the armature for the rotary solenoid 115. Although the solenoid 115 is mounted in front of the switch arm 134 and hence normally would obscure the arm as viewed in FiGURE 9, for purposes of clarity its location has been shown by dotted lines in this ligure.

As will be understood, the space bands are released by a suitable releasing mechanism (not shown) which is actuated by a pin 136 at the end of arm 126 adjacent the screw 129. The pin 136 is adapted to first move in a downward direction, as viewed in FlGURE 9, to thereby condition the releasing mechanism for the release of a space band. Upon upward movement of pin 135, a space band drops from the space band box and is assembled in a line of type.

Upon the appearance of information on. the control tape in the tape box lil (FGURE l) indicative of a space band, signals are transmitted over the cable 11 to the relay box 12 to thereby energize certain of the relays therein and complete an electrical path to the terminals 119 and 12d (FIGURE 8). At an appropriate time in the cycle, a signal is transmitted from the timing unit 17' over this path to the conductors 117 and 115i, thereby energizing the rotary solenoid 115 and charging the capacitor 121. Energization of the solenoid 115 rotates the solenoid shaft 135, together with the arm 134 allxed thereto, in a clockwise direction, as viewed in FEGURE 9, and the roller 132 bears against the liange 131 to rotate the arm 126 clockwise about the pin 127 against the tension of the coil spring 12S. This rotation of the arm 126 moves the pin 136 in a downward direction, thereby conditioning the space band releasing mechanism.

The solenoid 11 is held in its energized condition after the termination of the voltage signal across the terminals 119 and 12d by means of the capacitor 121. Upon the completion of the discharge of this capacitor, the solenoid 115 returns to its normal (unenergized) condition, and the arm 126 pivots in a countercloclrwise direction about the pin 127 by reason of the spring 12S. |TheI resulting upward movement of the pin actuates the releasing mechanism to cause a space band to drop from the space band box to the assembly point.

In the usual line casting machine, the time required for a released space band to reach the assembly point is less than that required for a released matrix, and it is therefore advantageous to prevent the space bands from reaching the assembly point ahead of their intended position in the line of type being formed. The apparatus described above insures that a particular space band reaches the assembly point in its proper sequence. Thus, by

f" ll means of the capacitor lZl and the solenoid llS, together with associated parts, there is a lapse of time between the appearance or" a space band release signal at the terminals ll9 and l2@ and the deenergization of solenoid ll' and resulting upward movement of pin 136 to release a space band. This time lapse may be adjusted by varying the time constant of the capacitor-solenoid circuit and/ or the tension in the spring 28 to insure that the space bands are assembled at their intended location in the line of type Vand not ahead of the preceding matrix, for example. ln one satisfactory embodiment, the time constant and spring tension are adjusted so that the time lapse is equal to slightly less than one complete revolution of the control shaft in the timing unit T17.

in many types of line casting machines there are provided a plurality of magazines, each similar to the magazine 5t? of FIGURES 5 and 6, which may be mounted one above or outwardly of the other on appropriate magazine frames and selectively positioned in an operative location on the machine. Each magazine customarily carries matrices adapted for the formation of a particular style of lettering. in accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention, an operating unit and an escapement mechanism are mounted on the frame 2@ supporting each such magazine. As shown in FlGURES l and ll, the cable i3 leading from the relay box l2 is connected to a multi-contact switch VSift@ which is adapted upon actuation to transfer the, leads in cable i3 between two output sockets ll and M2. Although many types of switches may be employed for this purpose, one satisfactory switch is similar to that sold by international -instruments, inc. catalogue No. 5SO24N. This International lnstruments switch is capable of establishing thirty connections between the cableillS and the sockets ifi-i or 142, although only twenty-seven of these connections are employed in the illustrated embodiment of the invention.

The output socket 141 is connected yby a cable 13a to an escapement operating unit Stein mounted in operable relationship with one of the magazines of a line casting machine a. Similarly, the output socket 142 is connected by a cable l3b to an escapement operating unit 34h in operable relationship with another magazine of the machine 15a. The construction and general mode of operation of the operating units la and i-tb in the release of matrices from the corresponding magazine and the manner in which these operating unitstare detachably mounted on the respective magazine frames (see the frame 2li of FiGURE. 2, for example) are similar to that described heretofore in connection with the operating unit lnV FlGUE l0, the physical relationship between the operating units idr! and l-/'b and the magazine frames of the line casting machine 15a is represented schematically by dotted lines M3 and lari.

As shown schematically by the dotted line 145, the switch le@ is mounted on the .line casting machine i511 adjacent a magazine shift lever 145 (FIGURE ll). The lever ldd is aixed to a rotatable shaft 147 adjacent one end thereof and includes an operating handle M3 at the other end thereof. As is well known, upward movement of the handle 14S, as viewed in FiGURE ll, is adapted to rotate the shaft lai-7 through a suitable arc to thereby shift from one matrbr magazine to the other. Upon the reof the handle lll to the position shown, the initial magazine is returned to an operable location on the machine.

Rigidly mounted on the shaft M7 is an actuator bracket i419. The ,bracket M9 is seid in position by suitable screws i5@ and includes a pin E51 on the outer portion thereof which entends in a direction parallel to the axial direction of shaft la7. The pin l is disposed in a U- shaped recess l52 at one end of a switch arm 153, the other end of which is amused to a contact positioning shaft ld of the switch iii-i).

When it is desired to shift from one magazine to another, such as to chan e st les of lettering, for exam le,

Gil

the handle 14% is moved in an upward direction, as viewed in FlGURE 1l, to thereby rotate the shaft ll counterclockwise through a suitable arc. As the shaft 147 rotates, he magaizne 59 associated with the escapernent operating unit la moves from an operable location on the line casting machine 15a, and the alternate magazine associated with theV operating unit lflb moves into position.

uring the counterclockwise rotation of the shaft ifi-7, the pin 51 on the switch actuator bracket l@ moves downwardly to similarly move the outer end of the arm i523. Movement of arm i53- rotates the contact positioning shaft l5@ of switch 14d in a clockwise direction, thereby transferring the various leads in the cable l from the socket lill to the socket 142. As a result, the cable i3 is automatically disconnected from the cable 13a for the operating unit ida and is connected to the cable lb for the operating unit lill? corresponding to the alternate magazine. VOperation of the line casting machine 15a is continued by means of the operating unit idb under the control of the tape in the tape box lll (ElGUitE l) in the manner described heretofore.

The terms and expressions which have been employed are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention, in the use of such terms and expressions, of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described, or portions thereof, it being recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention claimed.

What is claimed is: Y

l. in an automatic control system for a line casting machine having a matrix storage magazine and a frame member for supporting said magazine, in combination, an escapement mechanism for sequentially discharging individual matrices from said magazine, said mechanism in- Y cludinv a plurality of rocker members in operable relationship with said magazine, one of said rocker members being provided for each different type of matrix to be released, each of said members being adapted for rotation between an unoperated and an operated position, an operating unit including a plurality of solenoids, one for each of said rocker members, each of said solenoids hav- 'mg an armature portion directly and llexibly connected to the corresponding rocker member, and said operating unit including a plurality of unidirectional current devices electrically connected to said solenoids, means including said um'directional current devices for selectively energizing said solenoids, energization of a selected one of said soienoids being adapted to actuate the armature portion thereof and thereby rotate the corresponding rocker member to its operated position to release a matrix of the corresponding type, all of the matrices for a given ,line of type being released at uniform intervals, a plurality of coil springs respectively connected to eachtof said rocker members, each of said springs being adapted to return the rocker member connected thereto to its unoperated position immediately upon deenergization of the corresponding, selected solenoid, means for maintaining said solenoids and said unidirectional current devices in fixed relationship witheach other and with said escapement mechanism, and means for detachably securing said escapement mechanism to said frame member.

2. ln an automatic control system for a line casting machine having matrix storing means and a machine frame member including an elongated portion for supporting said storing means, in combination, releasing means in operat've relationship with said storing means for discharging individual matrices therefrom, said releasing means including a plurality of matrix discharge members in iuxtaposition with said storing means, one of said discharge members being provided for each different type of matrix to be released, an operating unit including a first and a second group of current responsive devices for operating said releasing means, one of said current responsive devices being provided for each of said discharge memberaeach of said current responsive ,devices having an armature portion directly connected to the corresponding discharge member, and said operating unit including a plurality of unidirectional current devices electrically connected to, said current responsive devices, elongated support means mounted on said releasing means for maintaining said operating unit in rigid relationship therewith, said support means including a lirst portion for supporting said yfirst group of said current responsive devices in spaced, side by side relationship with each other, including a second. portion for supporting said second group of current responsive devices in spaced, side by side relationship with each other and including a third portion for supporting said unidirectional current devices, and means for detachably securing said releasing means, together with theV operating unit attached thereto, to the storing means supporting portion of said frame member.

3. In an automatic control system for a line casting machine having `matrix storing means and a frame member for supporting said storing means, in combination, releasing meansidetachably secured to said trarne member and in operative relationship with said storing means for sequentially discharging individual matrices there- `from, said releasing means including a plurality of matrix discharge members in juxtaposition with said storing means, one of said discharge members being provided for each different type of matrix to be released, each of said discharge members being adapted for rotation between an unoperated and an operated position, an operating unit including a -tirst and a second group of current responsive devices for operating said releasing iJeans, one of said current responsive devices being provided for each of said discharge members, each of said current responsive devices having an armature portion directly connested to the cor esponding discharge member, and said operating unit including a plurality of unidirectional current devices electrically connected to said current responsive devices, means for selectively energizing said current responsive devices, energization of a selected one of said devices adapted to actuate the armature portion thereof and thereby rotate the corresponding discharge member to its operated position to release a matrix oi the corresponding type, all of the matrices for a given line of type being released at uniform intervals, and elongated support means mounted on said releasing means for maintaining said operating unit in rigid relationship therewith, said support means including a first llange portion for supporting said iirst group of current responsive devices in spaced, side by side relationship with each other, including a second dange portion for supporting said second group of current responsive devices in spaced, side by side relationship with each other and including an upstanding portion for supporting said unidirectional current devices.

4. In an automatic control system for aline casting machine having matrix storing means and a frame member for supporting said storing means, in combination, matrix releasing means detachably secured to said frame member for discharging individual matrices from said matrix storing means, said matrix releasing means including a plurality of rocker members in juxtaposition with said storing means, one of said members being provided for each different type of matrix to be released and each of said members being adapted for rocking movement between an unoperated and an operated position, an operating unit including a lirst and a second group of solenoids, one of said solenoids being provided for each of said rocker members, each of said solenoids having an armature portion directly and dexibly connected tothe corresponding rocker member, and said operating unit including a plurality of unidirectional current devices electrically connected to said solenoids, means for selectively energizing said solenoids, energization of a selected one of said solenoids being adapted to actuate the armature portion thereof and thereby move the corresponding rocker member to its operated position to release a matrix of the corresponding type, all ofthe matrices for a given line of type being released at uniform intervals, biasing means affixed to each of said rocker members for returning the rocker member corresponding to a selected solenoid to its unoperated position immediately upon deenergization thereof, and an elongated support bracket mounted on said releasing means for maintaining said operating unit in rigid relationship therewith, said bracket including a irst longitudinal flange portion for supporting said tirst group of current responsive devices in spaced, side by side relationship vu'th each other, including a second longitudinal flange portion for supporting said second group of current responsive devices in spaced, side by side relationship with each other and including an upstanding portion rigidly afxed to said first and second portions for supporting said unidirectional current devices.

5` In an automatic control system for a line casting machine having a matrix storage magazine and a frame meniber for supporting said magazine, in combination, an escapement mechanism for sequentially discharging individual matrices from said magazine, said mechanism including a plurality of rocker members in operable relationship with said magazine, one of said rocker members being provided for each dilerent type of matrix to be released and each of said members being adapted for rotation between an unoperated and an operated position, an operating unit including a first and a second group of solenoids, one of said solenoids being provided for each of said rocker members, each of said solenoids having a movable plunger directly and ilexibly connected to the corresponding rocker member, and said ope-rating unit including a plurality of rectitiers electrically connected to said solenoids, means for selectively energizing said solenoids, energization of a selected one of said solenoids being adapted to actuate the plunger thereof and there-by rotate the corresponding rocker member to its operated position to release a matrix of the corresponding type, all of the matrices for a given line of type being released at uniform intervals, biasing means for said rocker members including a plurality of coil springs respectively atixed to each of said rocker members, each of said coil springs being adapted to return the corresponding rocker member to its unoperated position immediately upon deenergization of the corresponding, selected solenoid, an elongated support bracket mounted on said escapement mechanism for maintaining said operating unit in rigid relationship therewith, said support bracket including a first and a second longitudinal ange in substantial coplanar alignment with each other and including an upstanding portion extending at right angles to the plane of said flanges, the solenoids in said rst group being rigidly afxed to said iirst ange in spaced, side by side relationship with each other, the solenoids in said second group being rigidly aixed to said second llange in spaced, side by side relationship with each other and said rectiiiers being positionen on said upslanding portion, and means for detachably securing said escapement mechanism to said frame member.

6. An automatic control system for a line casting machine having matrix storage means and a frame member for supporting said storing means, said system comprising, in combination, a device for advancing and analyzinga control tape, timing means for controlling the operation of said tape advancing and analyzing device, matrix releasinf7 means dctachably secured to said frame member for discharging individual matrices from said matrix storing means, said matrix releasing means including a plurality of rocker members lin juxtaposition with said storing means, one of said rocker members being provided for each dilerent type of matrix to be released and each of said rocker members being adapted for rocking movement between an unoperated and an operated position, an operating unit including a plurality of solenoids, one .ofsaid solenoids being provided for each of said rocker members,

aeree-a7 each of said solenoids having an armature portion directly and exibly connected to the corresponding rocker member, and said operating unit including a plurality of rectiflers electrically connected to said solenoids, circuit means responsive to said tape advancing and analyzing device for selectively energizing said solenoids, energization of a elected one of said solenoids being adapted to actuate the armature portion thereof and thereby move the correspending rocker member to its operated position to release a matrix of the corresponding type, all of the matrices for a given line of type being released at uniform intervals, biasing means affixed to each of said rocher iembers for returning the rocker member corresponding to a selected solenoid to its unoperated position immediately uponV deene'rgization thereof, and support means mounted on said releasing means for maintaining said operating unit in rigid relationship therewith, said support means including a rst portion'for supporting said solenoids in spaced, side by side relationship with each other and including a secondportion for supporting said rectiiers.

7. An automatic control system for a line casting ma chine having a matrix storage magazine and a frame member for supporting said magazine, said system comprising, in combination, a device for-advancing and analyzing a control tape, timing means for controlling the operation of said tape advancing and analyzing device, an escapement mechanism for sequentially discharging individual matrices rorn'said magazine, said mechanism including a pluralityof rocker members inoperable relationship with said magazine, one'of said rocker members being provided for each different type of matrix to be released and each of said rocker members being adapted for rotation between an unoperated and an operated position, an operating unit including a rst and a second group of solenoids,

one of said solenoids being provided foreach of said rocker members, each of said solenoids having a movable plunger directly and ilexibly connected to the corresponding rocker member, and said operating unit including a plurality of rectiers electrically connected tosaid solenoids, relay means responsive to said tape advancing and analyzing device for selectively energizing said solenoids, energization of a selected one ot said Ysolenoids being adapted to actuate the plunger thereof and 'thereby rotate the corresponding rocker member to its operated position to release a matrix of the corresponding type, all of the matrices for a given line of type being released at uniform intervals, biasing means for said rocker members including a plurality of coil springs respectively alixed to each of said'rocker members, each of said coil springs being adapted to return the corresponding rocker member to its unoperated position immediately upon deenergization of the corresponding, selected solenoid, an elongated support bracket vmounted on said escapement mechanism for maintaining said operating unit in rigid relationship'therewith, said support bracket including a irstand a second longitudinal liange in substantial coplanar alignment with each other and including an upstanding portion extending at right angles to the plane of said flanges, the solenoids in said rst group being rigidly aiixed to said irst ange Y in spaced, side by side relationship with each other, the

.solenoids in said second group being rigidly aflxed to said second flange in spaced, side by side relationship with each other and said rectiiiers being positioned on said upstandmg portion, and means for detachably securing Said escapement mechanism to said trame member.

'8. An automatic control system for a line casting machine, said machine including iirst and second matrix storlng'means, one of said matrix storing means being disposed in an operable location on said machine and each of said matrix storing means being supported by a frame member, and said machine including means ior shifting the other of said matrix storing means to said operable location, said system comprising, in combination, a device for analyzing a control tape, timing means for controlling the operation of said tape analyzing device, first and second matrix discharge means for respectively discharging individual matrices from said rst and second matrix storing means, all of the matrices for a given line of type beino discharged at uniform intervals, each of said matrix discharge means being detachably connected to the frame member for the corresponding matrix storing eans and including a plurality of releasing members, one of said releasing members being provided for each different type of matrix to be released, a first operating unit for operating said iirst matrix discharge means, a second operating unit for operating said second matrix discharge means, each of said operating units including a plurality of current responsive devices, one for each of the releasing members in the corresponding matrix discharge means, each of said current responsive devices having an armature portion directly and positively connected to the corresponding releasing member, means for maintaining the current responsive devices in each of said operating units in rigid relationship with each other and with the correspending matrix discharge means, circuit means responsive to said tape analyzing device and connected to one of said operating units for controlling the selective operation of the current responsive devices therein, said one operating unit corresponding to the matrix discharge means for said one matrix storing means, and means automatically responsive to the shifting of said other matrix storing means to said operable location for connecting said circuit means to the other of said operating units for controlling the selective operation of the current responsive devices therein.

9. An automatic control system for a line casting machine, said machine including iirst and second matrix storage magazines respectively supported on first and second magazine frame members, one of said magazines being disposed in an operable location on said machine, and said machine including means for shifting the other of said magazines to said operable location, said system cornprising, in combination, a device for advancing and analyzing a control tape, timing means for controlling the operation of said tape advancing and analyzing device, a lirst and a second escapemcnt mechanism for respectively discharging individual matrices from said first and second magazines, each of said escapement mechanisms being detachably secured to the trarne member for the corresponding magazine and including a plurality of rocker members in juxtaposition with said corresponding magazine, one of said rocker members being provided for each ditierent type of matrix to be released and each of said rocker members being adapted for rocking movement between an unoperated and an operated position, a first operating unit for selectively operating the rocker members in said rst escapernent mechanism, a second operating unit for selectively operating the roel-:er members in said 'second escapement mechanism, each of said operating units including a plurality of solenoids, one for each of the rocker members in the corresponding escapement mechanism, each of 'said solenoids having an armature portion directly and positively connected to the corresponding rocker member, and each of said operating units including a plurality of rectiiiers electrically connected to the solenoids therein, support means mounted on each of said escapement mechanisms for maintaining the corresponding operating unit in rigid relationship therewith, circuit means responsive to said tape advancing and analyzing device and connected t0 one of said operating units for selectively energizing the solenoids therein, said one operating unit corresponding to the escapement mechanism for said one magazine, and means automatically responsive to the shifting of saidV other magazine to said operable location and including a multi-contact switch for electrically connecting said circuit means to the other the corresponding rocker member to its operated position to release a matrix of the corresponding type.

l0. in an automatic control system for a line casting machine, said machine having matrix storing means and a frame member for supporting said storing means and including space band releasing means, in combination, matrix releasing means detachably mounted on said frame member for discharging individual matrices from said matrix storing means, said matrix releasing means including a plurality of discharge members movable between an unoperated and an operated position, one of said discharge members being provided for each different type of matrix to be released, an `operating unit including a plurality of solenoids, one for each of said discharge members, each of said solenoids having an armature portion directly connected to the corresponding discharge member, an additional solenoid mounted on said machine for controlling the operation of said space band releasing means, means for selectively energizing said piurality of solenoids and said additional solenoid, energization of a selected one of said plurality of solenoids being adapted to actuate the armature portion thereof and thereby move the corresponding discharge member to its operated position to release a matrix of the corresponding type, all of the matrices for a given line of type being discharged at uniform intervals, energization of said additional solenoid being adapted to condition said space band releasing means for operation, biasing means connected to each of said discharge members, each of said biasing means being adapted to return the discharge member connected thereto to its unoperated position immediately upon the deenergization of the corresponding solenoid, means responsive to the deenergization of said additional solenoid and operable at a predetermined time interval thereafter for actuating said space band releasing means, and means for maintaining said plurality of solenoids in iixed relationship with each other and with said matrix releasing means.

1l. In a control system for a line casting machine, said machine having matrix storing means, space band storing means and a manually operable keyboard mechanisrn for controlling the release of selected matrices and space bands from said matrix and space band storing means, in combination, matrix releasing means operable under the control of said keyboard mechanism for sequentially discharging individual matrices from said matrix storing means, said matrix releasing means including a plurality of matrix discharge members in juxtaposition with said matrix storing means, one of said members being provided for each did-arent type of matrix to be released, an operating unit including a plurality ofv current responsive devices, one for each of said discharge members, for automatically operating the same independently of said keyboard mechanism, each of said current responsive devices having an armature portion directly connected to the corresponding discharge member, space band releasing means operable under the control o said keyboard mechanism for discharging individual space bands from said space band storing means, an additional current responsive device for automatically controlling said space band releasing means independently of said keyboard mechanism, timing means for selectively energizing said current responsive devices at predetermined intervals, energization of a selected one of said plurality of current responsive devices automatically operating the associated discharge member to release a matrix of the corresponding type, all of the matrices released for a given line of type during the automatic operation oi said matrix releasing means being discharged at uniform intervals, energization of said additional current responsive device conditioning said space band releasing means for operation, and means responsive to the deenergization of said additional current responsive device and operable at a predetermined time interval thereafter -for automatically actuating said space band releasing means to release a space band, whereby the release of the matrices and space bands from said matrix and space band storing means is adapted to be controlled either manually by said keyboard mechanism or automatically by said current responsive devices and said timing means.

l2. In a control system for a lin-e casting machine, said machine having matrix storing means, space band storing means and a manually operable keyboard mechanism for controlling the release of selected matrices and space bands from said matrix and space band storing means, in combination, matrix releasing means operable under the control of said keyboard mechanism for sequentially discharging individual matrices from said matrix storing means, said matrix releasing means including a plurality of matrix discharge members in juxtaposition with said matrix storing means, one of said members being provided for each diiferent type of matrix to be released, an operating unit including a plurality of solenoids, one for each of said discharge members, for automatically operating the same independently of said keyboard mechanism, each of said solenoids having an armature portion directly and iiexibly connected to the corresponding discharge member, space band releasing means operable under the control of said keyboard mechanism 'for discharginLT individual space bands from said space band storing means, means including an additional soienoid for automatically controlling said space band releasing means independently of said keyboard mechanism, timing means for selectively energizing said solenoids at predetermined intervals, energization of a selected one of said plurality of solenoids automatically operating the associated discharge member to release a matrix of the corresponding type, all of the matrices released fer a given line of type during the automatic operation of said matrix releasing means being discharged at uniform intervals, energization of said additional solenoid conditioning said space band releasing means for operation, spring means for each of said matrix discharge members, said spring means being adapted to return the discharge member corresponding to a selected one of said plurality of solenoids to its unoperated position immediately upon the deenergization thereof, and means responsive to the deenergization of said additional solenoid and operable at a predetermined time interval thereafter for automatically actuating said space band releasing means to release a space band, whereby the release of the matrices and space bands from said matrix and space band storing means is adapted to be controlled either manually by said keyboard mechanism or automatically by said solenoids and said timing means.

References Cited in the le of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS 1,918,629 Blume July 18, 1933 2,846,055 Ackell A-ug. 5, 1958 2,869,717 Rossetto et al. Ian. 20, 1959 

1. IN AN AUTOMATIC CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A LINE CASTING MACHINE HAVING A MATRIX STORAGE MAGAZINE AND A FRAME MEMBER FOR SUPPORTING SAID MAGAZINE, IN COMBINATION, AN ESCAPEMENT MECHANISM FOR SEQUENTIALLY DISCHARGING INDIVIDUAL MATRICES FROM SAID MAGAZINE, SAID MECHANISM INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF ROCKER MEMBERS IN OPERABLE RELATIONSHIP WITH SAID MAGAZINE, ONE OF SAID ROCKER MEMBERS BEING PROVIDED FOR EACH DIFFERENT TYPE OF MATRIX TO BE RELEASED, EACH OF SAID MEMBERS BEING ADAPTED FOR ROTATION BETWEEN AN UNOPERATED AND AN OPERATED POSITION, AN OPERATING UNIT INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF SOLENOIDS, ONE FOR EACH OF SAID ROCKER MEMBERS, EACH OF SAID SOLENOIDS HAVING AN ARMATURE PORTION DIRECTLY AND FLEXIBLY CONNECTED TO THE CORRESPONDING ROCKER MEMBER, AND SAID OPERATING UNIT INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF UNIDIRECTIONAL CURRENT DEVICES ELECTRICALLY CONNECTED TO SAID SOLENOIDS, MEANS INCLUDING SAID UNIDIRECTIONAL CURRENT DEVICES FOR SELECTIVELY ENERGIZING SAID SOLENOIDS, ENERGIZATION OF A SELECTED ONE OF SAID SOLENOIDS BEING ADAPTED TO ACTUATE THE ARMATURE PORTION THEREOF AND THEREBY ROTATE THE CORRESPONDING ROCKER MEMBER TO ITS OPERATED POSITION TO RELEASE A MATRIX OF THE CORRESPONDING TYPE, ALL OF THE MATRICES FOR A GIVEN 